Trebbiano: Difference between revisions
Created page with "'''Trebbiano''' (Italian pronunciation: [trebˈbjaːno]) is a widely planted white wine grape variety originating in Italy, known for its high yields, fresh acidity, and versatility in winemaking. The grape has been cultivated on the Italian peninsula since at least the Roman period, with historical records noting its use in both table wine and vinegar production<ref>D’Agata, ''Native Wine Grapes of Italy'', University of California Press, 2014, pp. 589–592, ISBN 978..." |
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== See also == | == See also == | ||
[[Italian wine]] | *[[Italian wine]] | ||
[[Sangiovese]] | *[[Sangiovese]] | ||
[[Red wine]] | *[[Red wine]] | ||
[[White wine]] | *[[White wine]] | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
Latest revision as of 00:21, 9 August 2025
Trebbiano (Italian pronunciation: [trebˈbjaːno]) is a widely planted white wine grape variety originating in Italy, known for its high yields, fresh acidity, and versatility in winemaking. The grape has been cultivated on the Italian peninsula since at least the Roman period, with historical records noting its use in both table wine and vinegar production[1]. Outside Italy, it is grown under various synonyms, most notably as Ugni Blanc in France, where it plays a key role in the production of Cognac and Armagnac[2].
Background
Trebbiano is one of Italy’s most prolific grape varieties, with extensive plantings across regions such as Abruzzo, Lazio, Tuscany, and Emilia-Romagna[3]. The name covers several genetically distinct but related varieties, including Trebbiano Toscano, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, and Trebbiano di Soave. While some of these have long viticultural histories in their respective regions, Trebbiano Toscano became particularly significant during the 20th century due to its adaptability and high productivity[4].
Characteristics
The variety is known for its vigorous growth and high yields, producing large, loosely packed bunches of pale green grapes[5]. Wines made from Trebbiano generally exhibit light to medium body, crisp acidity, and delicate flavours, often with notes of green apple, citrus, and subtle floral tones[6]. Alcohol levels tend to be moderate, and the wines are typically best consumed young, although certain sub-varieties, such as Trebbiano di Soave, can produce more structured wines capable of modest ageing[7].
Use in winemaking
Trebbiano’s neutral profile and high acidity make it a versatile blending component in Italian white wines, contributing freshness and balance. It is a permitted or principal grape in several DOC and DOCG wines, such as Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC and Orvieto DOC[8]. In Tuscany, Trebbiano Toscano has historically been blended with Sangiovese in certain Chianti wines, although modern regulations have largely phased out this practice[9]. Outside Italy, the variety is cultivated extensively in France under the name Ugni Blanc, where its naturally high acidity is valued for the distillation of Cognac and Armagnac[10].
Modern winemaking trends have seen renewed interest in Trebbiano, with some producers experimenting with lower yields, skin contact, and oak ageing to produce wines of greater depth and complexity[11].
See also
References
- ↑ D’Agata, Native Wine Grapes of Italy, University of California Press, 2014, pp. 589–592, ISBN 978-0520272260.
- ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, pp. 1055–1057, ISBN 978-0062206367.
- ↑ Ministero delle Politiche Agricole Alimentari e Forestali, “Trebbiano in Italia”, politicheagricole.it.
- ↑ Scienza & Imazio, Vitigni d’Italia: Storia e diffusione, Edagricole, 2009, pp. 423–428, ISBN 978-8850653436.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, p. 198, ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Wine Folly, “Trebbiano Wine Guide”, winefolly.com.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, p. 728, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ D’Agata, Native Wine Grapes of Italy, University of California Press, 2014, pp. 589–592.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, p. 728.
- ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, pp. 1055–1057.
- ↑ Wine Folly, “Trebbiano Wine Guide”, winefolly.com.